Osaka University previews robotic hand for telepresence tech
updated 11:25 pm EDT, Tue March 27, 2012
Heater maintains body temperature
Researchers from Osaka University are currently showing off their robotic hand designed specifically for telepresence systems. The hand enables users to remotely shake hands with other individuals, adding physical interaction to the existing visual and audio elements.
The robotic hand is said to be constructed from silicone and sponge material, while a heater maintains the surface temperature at 98.6 degrees Fahrenheit. The heat is maintained at a temperature slightly higher than a normal human hand, in an attempt to compensate for the psychological expectation of shaking a cold nonhuman hand.
The research group plans to add a pressure sensor that will enable the hand to match the grip strength of the human on the receiving end of the handshake. The hand is also said to be a potential component for larger telepresence robots with additional physical interaction features. [via Engadget and DigInfo]
